Oasis

Definitely Maybe

A too often underrated debut

Review Score:

(8/10)
In the States, most people know Oasis for "Wonderwall" and "Champagne Supernova" and other gems off their second album. Their debut album, DEFINITELY MAYBE, is arguably the better one, a wonderful combination of youthful attitude and catchy melodies.

DEFINITELY MAYBE displays all the promise that Oasis had when they were just starting (a promise that has since been betrayed by their mediocre most recent work). The ingredients: loud and aggressive guitar work from Noel, some timeless melodies, and the trademark sneer and arrogance in Liam's singing. Liam's voice seems even brasher in this album than it did in the follow-up, and it works darn well. The songs just exude confidence.

The best tracks are probably "Live Forever," "Supersonic," and "Slide Away." "Live Forever" is probably a better single than "Wonderwall"--great tune, great work by Liam. The melody is pure exuberance and arrogance, especially on the memorable chorus. "Supersonic" has a monster guitar riff, and it's one of the best pure rock songs they've ever done. "Slide Away" is a monster of a love song--loud, brash, but with lyrics and a melody that pull on your heart: "Now that you're mine / We'll find a way of chasing the sun / Let me be the one who shines with you / In the morning when we don't know what to do." The last track, "Married With Children," is quite soft and gentle. It says quite a lot that Oasis managed to pull off two such different songs ("Supersonic" and "Married With Children") on one album. There are a couple throwaway tracks ("Digsy's Diner" comes to mind), but overall the album is just as good as WHAT'S THE STORY (MORNING GLORY)?

This album is highly recommended to anyone who liked "Wonderwall" and the other singles off the second album. Both albums have their weak spots, but the strong songs compensate very well. Also recommended to Oasis fans: Travis's THE MAN WHO (similar melodically, but much quieter.)

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